Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings? This Brunswick Stew is a Southern favorite that’s packed with ground turkey, beef, shredded chicken, and a medley of veggies in a rich, tomato-based broth. It’s hearty, wholesome, and guaranteed to warm your soul. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
What You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey (pork-free alternative)
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 (3 lb) whole cooked chicken, deboned and shredded
- 3 (14.5 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes, chopped (with liquid)
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup hickory-flavored barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium green bell pepper
- 3 (14.75 oz) cans cream-style corn
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
First, heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add onions and celery; cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the stew.
Step 2: Brown the Meats
Next, add ground turkey and beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Do not drain the fat, as it adds richness to the stew.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
After, stir in shredded chicken, tomatoes, ketchup, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Submerge the whole green pepper in the mixture. This step builds the stew’s rich, tangy flavor profile.
Step 4: Simmer the Stew
Then, reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Corn
Finally, stir in the cream-style corn and cook for another hour, or until desired consistency is reached. Remove the green pepper, chop it, and return it to the stew (or discard). Pro tip: Use smoked turkey instead of ground turkey for an extra layer of flavor!
The Best Time to Savor Your Brunswick Stew
There’s no better time to enjoy a bowl of Brunswick Stew than on a chilly evening, wrapped in a cozy blanket. The rich, savory flavors and hearty texture make it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a solo comfort meal. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of 3-Ingredient Biscuits for a complete, satisfying experience. For more cozy meal ideas, check out our Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole or Creamy Tortellini Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brunswick Stew
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients (except the corn) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the corn during the last hour of cooking.
What can I substitute for ground turkey?
Smoked turkey or even ground chicken are excellent alternatives. They add a unique flavor and keep the dish pork-free.
How long does Brunswick Stew last in the fridge?
This stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or lima beans for extra texture and flavor. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Brunswick Stew
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
3 hours & 15 minutes
Servings
16
Category
Comfort food
This hearty, Southern-style stew is packed with ground turkey, beef, chicken, and a medley of veggies in a rich, tomato-based broth. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or feeding a hungry family!
Ingredient
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey (pork-free alternative)
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 (3 lb) whole cooked chicken, deboned and shredded
- 3 (14.5 oz) cans whole peeled tomatoes, chopped (with liquid)
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup hickory-flavored barbecue sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium green bell pepper
- 3 (14.75 oz) cans cream-style corn
Instructions
- First, heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add onions and celery; cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add ground turkey and beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 10 minutes. Do not drain.
- After, stir in shredded chicken, tomatoes, ketchup, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Submerge the whole green pepper in the mixture.
- Then, reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Finally, stir in the cream-style corn and cook for another hour, or until desired consistency is reached. Remove the green pepper, chop it, and return it to the stew (or discard).
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 380
- Fat: 19g
- Carbs: 25g
- Protein: 29g
Pro Tips
For extra flavor, use smoked turkey instead of ground turkey. It adds a delicious depth to the stew!
Pro Tips for Perfect Brunswick Stew
Want to take your Brunswick Stew to the next level? These expert tips will help you achieve the best results every time:
- Use Smoked Meats: For an extra layer of flavor, use smoked turkey or smoked chicken instead of plain ground turkey. It adds a delicious depth to the stew.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours. This slow cooking process helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Adjust the Heat: Customize the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce. You can also include diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh thyme or bay leaves during the cooking process for an aromatic touch. Remove them before serving.
- Thicken the Stew: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Brunswick Stew to keep it tasting fresh:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to keep the stew moist.
- Freezing: Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Brunswick Stew
Complete your Southern feast with these delicious pairings:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Try our Italian Bread recipe for the perfect accompaniment.
- Cornbread: A slice of sweet or savory cornbread complements the stew’s rich flavors. Check out our 3-Ingredient Biscuits for a quick and easy side.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the stew. Pair it with our Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole for a hearty meal.
- Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage like sweet tea or Golden Milk makes a refreshing drink to enjoy with the stew.
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a table filled with a steaming pot of Brunswick Stew, sharing laughs, and enjoying the vibrant flavors of this Southern classic. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to bring people together. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your feast and share it with us in the comments below! We’d love to hear how your Brunswick Stew turned out.
For a creative twist, try adding seasonal vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the stew. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as smoked sausage or pulled pork, to make it your own. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, double the recipe and serve it buffet-style for a fun, interactive dining experience.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Brunswick Stew as much as we do. Don’t forget to tag us on social media with #BrunswickStew and #SouthernComfort so we can see your delicious creations! For more crowd-pleasing recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and get exclusive tips and recipes delivered straight to your inbox.
Happy cooking, y’all!